ABU DHABI ó The World Economic Forumís Summit on the Global Agenda will open on Monday in the capital to respond to global economic issues.

For the fourth consecutive year, the Summit will bring together over 800 members of the Network of Global Agenda Councils, comprising global experts — thought leaders from academia, business, government and civil society— from 80 countries to address some of the most pressing issues on the global, regional and industry agendas.

The co-chairs of the Summit on the Global Agenda 2011 are Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister of Economy,Nasser Ahmed Alsuwaidi, chairman, Department of Economic Development.

During the summit, the council members will identify key issues, explore risks and unmet opportunities, and elaborate mitigation strategies in a series of interactive sessions and uniquely designed conversations across Councils and relevant themes.

“This summit takes place against a backdrop of unprecedented global challenges. Not only has the sheer amount of challenges increased, but their complexity as well,” said Boge Brende, managing director, Government Relations and Constituents Engagement, World Economic Forum.

“Never before has the global community faced such a number of challenges at the same time. What is needed, therefore, are new models –finding new forms of cooperation and problem solving that are capable of responding effectively to these challenges. This is what the Summit on the Global Agenda aims to achieve.”

“We look forward to welcoming the best and the brightest from around the world for the Summit on the Global Agenda for the fourth time,” said Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri.

“This is a unique opportunity to share and exchange insights and work together to identify new ways of meeting some of the most pressing global challenges.”

Nasser Ahmed Al Suwaidi, added: “The UAE’s participation in the World Economic Forum, and the hosting of the Summit on the Global Agenda in Abu Dhabi is a testament to our ongoing commitment to make a significant contribution to global conversations.”